Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP

09/02/2026

Back to school safety tips

Motor vehicle collisions are the number one cause of injury or death among children.

Did you know?

* When children see an approaching car, they first notice the colour - not how fast the vehicle is traveling.
* A child’s field of vision is one-third narrower than an adult’s.
* Most pedestrian traffic injuries happen to five to nine-year-olds in mid-block crossings, and to 10 to 14-year-olds at intersections.

09/01/2026

September marks the launch of a province-wide campaign against distracted driving. This initiative, in collaboration with ICBC, is aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, a leading factor in many motor vehicle collisions across the province.

Did you know, distracted and inattentive driving contributes significantly to crashes, causing an average of 78 deaths and 5,788 police-reported injuries across British Columbia each year?

Distracted driving is 100% avoidable, put your phone out of reach and only check it once you get to your destination and your car is parked safely.

08/27/2026

As students return to school on September 8, Penticton RCMP and School District 67 are reminding everyone to help keep our school zones safe.

✅ Slow down to 30 km/h in school and playground zones
✅ Use designated drop-off and pick-up areas
✅ Stop for pedestrians and obey all traffic signs and signals
✅ Wear a helmet when cycling
✅ Leave e-scooters at home if under 16 years old
✅ Stay focused and avoid distractions

Penticton RCMP will be conducting increased patrols around local schools to help ensure a safe start to the school year.

Let's work together to make sure every student arrives safely and gets home safely. Wishing all students, families, and staff a successful 2026-27 school year! 🍎🎒

08/26/2026

Happy International Dog Day!

Meet the newest member of the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional Detachment Police Dog Service, welcome Ronin and his human Sgt. Chris Scott!

Check out Ronin’s credentials:

• Age: 3 years old
• Breed: German Shepherd
• Career: Has been a police service dog since December of 2025
• Human: Sgt Chris Scott, a police dog handler of 20 years
• Favourite Treat: Anything he can get his mouth on (Ronin not Chris)
• Favourite Activity: Swimming and chasing a ball

Look for Ronin and have a bacon treat ready, you may just get a thank you lick in return!

08/25/2026

Sunday afternoon turned into a fantastic event with the RCMP Musical Ride in town! Thank you so much to everyone that supported the event at Desert Park. It was amazing to see the incredible horses up close. The Musical Ride took place during the Hearts For Heroes event which makes special tribute to the RCMP and all first responders that have been working tirelessly during this wildfire season.

Thank you for coming, we hope to see you all soon!

08/23/2026

The Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional Detachment understand there is still lots of work to be done on the Bald Range wildfire but wanted to thank the public for obeying the restrictions and evacuations orders. As families return to their homes, we know that what you are returning to is not normal. We live in these communities too and understand how you feel, life won’t be the same. Just know you are not alone. We encourage to help each other get through this and to reach out to your neighbours to check on them.

Thank you to everyone who supported the families that were forced from their homes and who have shown support to all the first responders. It has taken so many people to get to this point, and we thank you for your help.

Be careful when you head back to your property, it will be very different from when you left.

08/22/2026

Saddle up Osoyoos this Sunday! 🐎

This isn’t just a horse show—it’s a stunning display of tradition, teamwork, and horsemanship that’s uniquely Canadian🍁 and a summer favorite ☀️for generations.

A symbol of tradition, honour, and pride, the Musical Ride is a Canadian icon recognized at home and abroad. The Musical Ride supports front-line police operations by building positive relationships, supporting recruiting efforts and promoting the RCMP's image in communities in Canada and around the world.

The troop of up to 32 riders, who are all police officers, and their horses perform intricate formations and drills set to music, lasting about 30 minutes. These movements demand the utmost control, timing, and coordination.

Experience the magic that has captivated audiences for generations by purchasing your ticket – Desert Park Racetrack.

08/14/2026

The Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP thanks the public for their ongoing cooperation and patience when it comes to the Bald Range Wildfire. The continued commitment of our officers, emergency responders, ESS volunteers, and partner agencies is instrumental in helping keep communities safe, supported, and informed.

Police remind locals and visitors to the South Okanagan that the restrictions remain in place and that firefighting efforts are fluid with potential conditions changing at a moment’s notice.

RCMP continue to patrol the neighbourhoods of Summerland and the surrounding area keeping homes and businesses safe.

08/11/2026

The Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP are working with our frontline responders in Summerland and the surrounding area.

For the most up to date information on evacuation alerts and orders, connect with your local jurisdictional authority or visit Emergency Info BC at EmergencyInfoBC.ca

For the most updated road closure information and conditions please visit DriveBC.ca.

For evacuation support services you can contact the Evacuee support line at 1-800-387-4258.

Evacuation orders remain in affect so please stay out of the area so firefighting efforts can continue without interruption.

08/10/2026